Leaf Spring Bolts

[syplace]

After all this talk about wheels coming off, axels, etc. hubby decided to crawl under and check it out. Lo & Behold wheels are still on, BUT one of the bolts holding the leaf spring (closest to the door) is not all the way through, infact it looks like only 3 threads are holding it, plus the U bracket is not straight. The other three are fine. They protrude at least 1/4 inch. We have an appointment w/dealer to get it fixed, but sure do hate to haul it the 87 miles to Eau Claire. Sure do hope nothing happens. We are going to leave it for one week. The Montana has been in our side yard since we brought it home June 21st so can't say it has had hard use.

[lightningjack11]

Thats incredible on such a new unit. I check my wheel well area constantly, especially when I am on the road. I usually just do the work myself. I trust myself more that a dealer.

[Montana_657]

What a bummer... send "the boss" back undeneath and have him look for two things.

1. Any bulgeing of the axel between the two U bolts.
2. Any tilting of the wheel. You can use a level on the tire.

That is hold the level verticle and view the small glass at the end. It's hard to see but if the castor/camber is out it should be different then the other wheels. Remembe a tire with load on it bulges at the bottom. You nee to put the level on the rim, or use a wooden block on the rim to stand the level off a few inches if it's to long.

Let us know how you make out.

[DrivesBGM]

The suspension components do not provide grease fitting so it isn't possible to grease these wear points. (Which seems like a bummer!) But would it help to oil them with something like 30W motor oil?

I another thread, someone stated that the suspension has plastic bushings. (Although I can't see any.) And was wondering if oil might be detrimental to the plastic?

Any ideas?

Craig

[Montana_657]

I'm gonna get some photos out Craig. You can't see the bushing until you pull the bolts.

By the way... to pull the bolts the trailer MUST be comletely supported on jack stands or blocks!!!

[BigBlue]

DrivesBGM
Petroleum pruducts are death on plastic. I wouldn't use oil. You might look at something like drylube, a silicon based lubricant

[DrivesBGM]

Thanks BigBlue! That's what I thought! Guess I will just let them continue to rust and wear and check occassionally to make suer they aren't ready to disintegrate!

Craig